Indulge in the ultimate comfort meal with the Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe, a luscious blend of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce. This dish transforms ordinary weeknight dinners into gourmet experiences, offering a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or simply craving a satisfying pasta dinner, this recipe guarantees a memorable culinary experience.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!With its creamy consistency, savory aroma, and wholesome ingredients, the Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is not just a meal—it’s a moment of joy on a plate. Its elegant combination of fresh vegetables, high-quality protein, and perfectly cooked penne makes it a crowd-pleaser suitable for all occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
Velvety Flavor: The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create a rich, silky sauce that perfectly coats every penne piece.
Fresh & Nutritious: Packed with mushrooms and asparagus, this pasta delivers essential vitamins and antioxidants.
Protein-Packed: Tender chicken breast ensures a fulfilling and balanced meal.
Quick & Easy: From prep to plate in just 30–40 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or date nights at home.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples while delivering gourmet quality.
Comfort Meets Gourmet: Elegant enough for special occasions, comforting enough for everyday meals.
Ingredients for Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
Protein
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Pasta & Vegetables
12 ounces penne pasta
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
3 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Liquids & Oils
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup chicken broth
Seasonings
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Optional: crushed red pepper flakes
Garnish
Extra Parmesan cheese
Chopped parsley
Ingredient Tips & Substitutions:
Chicken: Use thigh meat for juicier results.
Pasta: Gluten-free penne works for dietary restrictions.
Vegetables: Zucchini or peas can replace asparagus if preferred.
Cream: Half-and-half can be substituted for lighter sauce.
Cheese: Pecorino Romano adds a sharper flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sear for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Mushrooms and Asparagus
Melt butter in the same skillet. Add mushrooms and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned. Add asparagus and cook for an additional 3 minutes until tender but crisp.
Add Garlic and Build the Sauce
Stir in minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the pan. Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional crushed red pepper flakes.
Simmer the Sauce
Allow sauce to simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine Everything
Return chicken to the skillet. Add drained penne and toss to coat in creamy sauce. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
Serve
Garnish with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley. Serve warm for maximum flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Mushroom Asparagus Penne
How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
Use medium heat when adding cream and whisk continuously. Adding cheese gradually ensures a smooth sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of cream or pasta water.
How do I keep asparagus crisp?
Add asparagus last and cook briefly to retain its vibrant color and slight crunch.
How can I make it extra flavorful?
Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding cream to enhance depth.
Best Ways to Serve
Pair with a light Caesar salad or garlic bread.
Serve with a glass of crisp white wine for a gourmet touch.
Ideal as a main course for family dinners, potlucks, or romantic meals.
Nutrition (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 3g
Daily Value %:
Vitamin A: 10%
Vitamin C: 15%
Calcium: 20%
Iron: 15%
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or cream.
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, replace chicken with firm tofu or extra mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Absolutely, substitute penne with gluten-free pasta. Ensure all sauces and seasonings are gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe ahead for meal prep?
Yes, prep chicken and vegetables ahead. Assemble and reheat sauce when ready to serve.
What type of cheese works best?
Parmesan is ideal, but Pecorino Romano or Asiago adds a sharper flavor.
Variations of Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
One-Pan Version: Cook pasta in the sauce directly for a simpler cleanup.
Low-Calorie: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce butter.
Gourmet Twist: Add truffle oil or fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary.
Regional Style: Italian-American: add sun-dried tomatoes and basil.
Conclusion
Elevate your dinner with this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe—a dish that combines rich flavors, wholesome ingredients, and effortless elegance. Impress your family or guests with a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your culinary masterpiece on social media and tag your friends who love pasta as much as you do!